Giants Cut Najee Harris After 2-Yard Game

The New York Giants have cut running back Najee Harris, just two days after he publicly criticized his playing time following a 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints ^[1]. Harris, who started the game, managed only four carries for two yards — the worst output among six players with carries — and later told reporters he struggled to get into a rhythm due to inconsistent reps ^[2].

Despite having 99 rushing yards this season — second on the team behind Cam Skattebo — Harris’s performance has been inconsistent. His 3.2 yards per carry average reflects a broader issue: the Giants’ running back corps totaled just 34 rushing yards in the loss, with no back surpassing 45 total yards ^[1].

Coach John Harbaugh confirmed that the team is searching for a clear leader among the backfield group, stating, "Nobody has really taken the bull by the horns," after the game ^[2]. Harbaugh criticized the committee approach, saying the team tried to give everyone equal chances but no one stepped up.

Harris, 28, was drafted in the first round by the Steelers in 2021 and played four seasons before joining the Chargers, where he tore his Achilles. He signed with the Giants this offseason after Jaxson Dart’s injury, but failed to make an impact ^[1].

With Harris gone, the Giants now have Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary in the backfield. Tracy Jr. showed promise with 45 total yards and two touchdowns on eight touches, and could see a larger role on passing downs ^[1]. Skattebo, who fumbled four times this season, had no carries in the Saints game but is expected to return to the rotation ^[2].

The team is expected to add depth this week, possibly signing a veteran or practice squad player to stabilize the position ^[1]. Harbaugh’s message is clear: one back must emerge as the primary, or the rotation will continue to falter. According to one source, Harris’s expressed frustration may have contributed to his release, but this has not been confirmed ^[2].